The 2008 election cycle saw a surge in individuals contributing to the presidential campaigns, particularly among small donors (those giving $200 or less). Because candidates are not required to divulge information about donors who give $200 or less, little is known about these donors. Utilizing innovative techniques in record linkage as well as data obtained from the McCain and Obama campaigns, we analyze data froma survey we conducted on individual donors at all giving levels to ecamine donor motivations. Studies of donors in the past have applied the longstanding threefold motivation typology first developed by Clark and Wilson: solidary, purposive, and material. We consider this typology as well as factors proposed by Verba, Schlozman and Brady and Rosenstone and Hansen: selective vsl collectivek and the influence of "interests, preferences, identificadtions and beliefs." Further, we consider motivations that grow our of the ocntext of the 2008 campagin centering on teh candidates, teh campaign, and issues. We use factor analysis to assess the existing typologies and explore a more general approach to motivation. We then apply this to develop a multivariate approach to donor motivation.